Bengaluru News

Trevor Noah’s Bengaluru Show Cancelled, Apologises & Announces Refund, Netizens Tell AR Rahman To Learn From Noah

September 28, 2023
The Commune

Trevor Noah, the Emmy-winning comedian and former host of “The Daily Show,” found himself at the center of controversy as his much-anticipated Bengaluru show was abruptly cancelled due to technical issues. The last-minute cancellation left fans disappointed and raised questions about the state of event management in India.

The show, scheduled at the Manpho Convention Centre in Manyata Tech Park, Nagavara, was marred by problems ranging from a delayed start to poor venue conditions. Audience members complained of a subpar sound system, inadequate air conditioning, and uncomfortable seating.

Despite the delayed start and an opening act, issues with acoustics became evident. The rear sections of the hall, accommodating about 1,000 seats, struggled to hear the performance. This led to repeated protests from the audience, with shouts of “We can’t hear” disrupting the show.

Trevor Noah, known for his professionalism, attempted to address the sound issues but eventually conceded that the performance could not continue under such conditions. The cancellation, which occurred approximately 50 minutes into the show, was announced to a disappointed crowd. He said, “Bad sound guys can’t figure out how to fix this. I won’t be able to perform like this. Sorry for the situation. Everyone will get their money back.”

In the aftermath, fans expressed their frustration, with some pointing out the inconvenience caused by traffic delays in reaching the venue. However, Trevor Noah and his team quickly assured ticket holders that they would receive full refunds and apologised for the unprecedented cancellation.

The incident drew comparisons to a recent controversy involving Indian music composer AR Rahman. Rahman’s concert in Chennai faced severe criticism due to alleged mismanagement, leaving attendees traumatised. Some fans noted the contrast between Trevor Noah’s cancellation and Rahman’s handling of the situation, suggesting that Rahman could learn from Noah’s professionalism.

Rahman also shared a “highlights” video which seemed to rub salt in the still-healing wounds of the fans who attended the concert. Ironically, Rahman also turned off comments on that post.

Many netizens called him out for being tone-deaf after what happened at the concert in September 2023.

While Trevor Noah’s Bengaluru show cancellation highlighted the importance of event preparedness, it also prompted reflection on how artists should ideally handle unforeseen challenges. Noah’s commitment to audience satisfaction and quick response to the situation stood in contrast to recent incidents in the entertainment industry. 

In contrast, AR Rahman neither issued a substantial apology nor announced refunds for those who had a distressing experience at the event. The music composer proceeded with his performance despite ongoing issues at the venue and the organisers failed to provide a suitable apology as well.

Association Of Surgeons Of India Seeks Refund From AR Rahman

The Association of Surgeons of India has filed a complaint against music composer AR Rahman, demanding a refund of ₹29.5 lakh advance payment for a conference. The association had planned an annual national conference in Chennai in December 2018 and had booked Rahman for a performance, paying the advance.

However, due to venue and government approval issues, the conference was cancelled, and the association requested a refund. Rahman’s team issued a post-dated cheque, which bounced, and they didn’t respond to follow-up attempts for two years.

This complaint comes in the wake of controversies surrounding Rahman, including a recent concert in Chennai marked by overcrowding and mismanagement, leading to a stampede-like situation and molestation incidents. A police officer was also transferred following the concert debacle. The Association of Surgeons of India has now sought action against Rahman and his aide, while police investigate the matter, adding to Rahman’s recent challenges.

Fans argue that despite both high-profile events ending in disappointment for fans, Trevor Noah’s professionalism and his prompt apology, along with the decision not to continue the program, elevate his image in comparison to AR Rahman.

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